Ah, nothing warms the heart and fills the belly quite like a comforting casserole, am I right? This Easy Ground Beef Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish. I remember the first time I made it. It was one of those cold, rainy evenings, and I had a craving for something hearty that wouldn’t take hours in the kitchen. I whipped this up in no time, and oh boy, my family cleaned their plates!
What I love about this casserole is how versatile it is and how it beautifully balances nostalgia and simplicity. You can jazz it up with your favorite veggies or spice it down for the picky eaters in your household. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder—less cleanup means more time for cozy chats around the table.
What’s in Easy Ground Beef Casserole?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish magical:
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for that right amount of fat which keeps the dish juicy without making it greasy.
Onion: Chopped onion adds depth and flavor. I’m a fan of yellow onions for their sweetness when cooked.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can save the day, but fresh is always better.
Bell Peppers: I love adding colorful bell peppers to the mix for a pop of color and crunch. Use your favorites—red, green, or even yellow!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes will add moisture and a nice acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
Egg Noodles: These are the perfect base—easy to cook and they soak up all the sauce beautifully.
Cheddar Cheese: Because what’s a casserole without cheese?! A gooey layer of cheddar on top makes every bite irresistible.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and some Italian seasoning for that extra kick!
Is Easy Ground Beef Casserole Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspect. While this casserole is certainly comforting, it does have some nutritious benefits.
Ground Beef: This ingredient is high in protein and essential vitamins. If you’re watching your fat intake, lean ground beef or even ground turkey are great alternatives.
Bell Peppers: They add a serving of veggies to the mix! Full of vitamins A and C, bell peppers are not just pretty but also beneficial.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheese can be a good source of calcium, but if you’re going for a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cheese or even a mix of cheese types.
Keep in mind that portion control is key, and the dish can be quite hearty, so pairing it with a side salad can balance things out!
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 6 people. Here’s what you need:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
– 3 cups egg noodles (dry)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup mixed veggies (like corn or peas)
How to Make Easy Ground Beef Casserole?
Are you ready to create some magic? Follow these simple steps:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Cook the Noodles:** In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. **Cook the Beef:** In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft.
4. **Add Veggies:** To the same skillet, toss in the bell peppers, and any other veggies you like. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes.
5. **Combine Ingredients:** Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), cooked noodles, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
6. **Assemble the Casserole:** Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top it generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. **Bake:** Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melty and slightly golden.
8. **Serve:** Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Trust me, your patience will be rewarded!
Cozy Casserole Tips and Variations!
Let’s spice things up a bit! Here are some fun variations and tips:
– **Add Some Spice:** If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in some cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick.
– **Vegetarian Version:** Swap out the ground beef for lentils or a mix of beans! Just add extra seasoning to keep the flavor packed.
– **Toppings Galore:** Before serving, sprinkle on some chopped green onions or fresh parsley to brighten things up.
– **Make Ahead:** This casserole is perfect for meal prep! Just assemble it and cover tightly, refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking.
I hope you give this Easy Ground Beef Casserole a try! It might just become your new go-to for those cozy dinners. I can’t wait to hear how it turned out for you—don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with me! Happy cooking!
